Smokebush
Also known as
Smoke tree, Eurasian smoke tree, Wig tree, Venetian sumach, European smokebush
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Cotinus coggygria, commonly called smokebush or smoke tree, is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree prized for its airy, plume-like inflorescences that resemble drifting smoke. Typically maturing 10–15 ft (3–5 m) tall and wide, it bears rounded leaves that range from glaucous blue‑green to deep purple, depending on the cultivar, and provide spectacular autumn color in shades of yellow, orange, and red. In early summer, panicles of tiny flowers are followed by elongated, feathery pedicels that expand into the signature hazy effect. Native to dry, rocky slopes and open scrub, it thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates drought once established. Numerous cultivars, such as ‘Royal Purple’, ‘Grace’, and ‘Golden Spirit’, offer varied foliage colors and habits. With minimal maintenance, good drainage, and ample sun, smokebush serves as a dramatic focal point, screen, or backdrop in mixed borders.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Smokebush
Water
Water newly planted smokebush deeply once weekly during its first growing season, supplying about 1–1.5 inches (25–38 mm) total moisture per week, factoring in rainfall and soil type. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. After establishment (1–2 years), it is drought tolerant and generally needs water only during prolonged dry spells; then give a slow, deep soak rather than frequent, shallow watering. Avoid standing water around the crown, especially in clay soils and containers.
Light
Provide full sun for best flowering, ‘smoke’ effect, and foliage color—aim for 6–8 hours of direct light daily. In very hot summer climates, especially for purple or chartreuse cultivars, light afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch with minimal loss of color. Too much shade reduces bloom, weakens stems, and dulls autumn display. Favor exposures with morning sun and good air movement, avoiding dense shade cast by buildings or evergreen canopies.
Nutrients
Smokebush needs little feeding and often performs best in lean soils. In early spring, mulch with compost or apply a light dose of a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer (e.g., 5‑5‑5 to 10‑10‑10) around the drip line, keeping product off the trunk. Avoid high‑nitrogen formulas, which can encourage lanky growth and diminish foliage color. Container specimens can receive a half‑strength, balanced liquid feed monthly during active growth. Always water in after fertilizing and maintain a 2–3 inch (5–8 cm) organic mulch.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8 (approximately down to −20°F/−29°C), Cotinus coggygria handles winter cold and summer heat when grown in well‑drained soil. In colder areas, apply a 2–3 inch mulch to insulate roots and avoid late‑season fertilization that can trigger tender growth before frost. In very hot, arid regions, young plants benefit from supplemental irrigation and slight afternoon shade to limit scorch. Container-grown plants are less hardy; overwinter them in a sheltered spot to protect roots from freeze–thaw.
